Final answer:
Certain foods like nuts, shellfish, eggs, grains, and milk can cause food allergies, resulting in symptoms from mild digestive issues to severe anaphylaxis requiring emergency treatment.
Step-by-step explanation:
Common Food Allergies and Reactions
Food allergies are immune system responses that occur when it mistakenly identifies certain food substances as harmful. Primary foods that can cause severe allergic reactions include nuts, shellfish, eggs, grains, and milk. Reactions can range from mild, such as vomiting and diarrhea, to more serious symptoms like swelling of the lips and mouth, skin rashes, difficulty breathing, and potentially life-threatening anaphylaxis. Anaphylaxis requires immediate emergency medical treatment to avoid fatal consequences.
Symptoms of Food Allergies
Upon ingestion of an allergen, individuals with food allergies may experience a variety of symptoms, including digestive issues like vomiting and diarrhea, or cutaneous symptoms such as itching and hives. Respiratory difficulties are among the more severe symptoms, indicating a more serious allergic reaction. It is important for people with food allergies to avoid their triggers, as even small amounts can cause serious symptoms.